Cultural Tourism Program Development in Maasailand

  Tanzania

Term: Throughout the year 
Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Dates: throughout the year

Description: There is a wealth of discovery to be explored throughout the Maasai community: people, history, customs, traditional food, etc. Many travelers wish to visit a small community and learn firsthand about the hidden cultural treasures. It has been a formidable challenge for the communities to prepare brochures and organize tours by themselves. Volunteers offering their creativity and guidance are welcome to assist a Maasai community with developing cultural tourism programs which can generate income and improve the living standards for everyone in the group.

Highlights: The diversity within Tanzania is stunning. the country is home to over 120 ethnic groups, the equatorial snows of Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti plains teeming with wildlife, and the white sand beaches of Arab and Indian influenced Dar es Salaam. ELI works with organizations within three distinct communities in Tanzania: the Meru Community in the village of Tengeru on the flanks of Mt. Meru, the multicultural city, Dar es Salaam, and the Maasai community in the village of Elkurot north of Arusha town.

Please note that Maasai projects are only for the most adventurous travelers. Conditions are extremely basic. Volunteers working in Maasai Land will stay in a local style mud hut, a typical Maasai abode. Maasai host families do not have running water or electricity.

This is a rare opportunity to experience a traditional way of life that is quickly changing.

Qualifications: Participants in this program must be extremely adaptable and flexible self starters. A background in marketing is a big help.

Cost in US$: Starting at $795 for two weeks

Airport Pickup: Volunteers are met at the Kilimanjaro airport and provided with transportation to the volunteer house

In-country Orientation: Each volunteer program starts with a two to three day orientation which covers important topics on the logistics of living and working in Tanzania, city tours, and help with transportation.

In-country Staff Support: ELI's Tanzania coordinator has years of experience working with visitors to Tanzania. He is very resourceful and on call 24/7 in case of emergency.

Accommodations: Volunteers will stay with a Maasai family in their traditional kraal or homestead. The accommodations are very basic. Host families do not have running water or electricity, and subsist off a simple diet. Participants must be prepared to adapt to the local conditions.

Experience Required: yes

Participants in this program should have some marketing experience. Tourism related experience is a big help as well.

Typical Volunteer: There is no typical ELI volunteer. We work with people from all over the world and a variety of backgrounds. ELI has placed volunteers ranging in age from 18-81. Successful volunteers are flexible, upbeat, energetic, and inquisitive.

Age Range: 18 and over

This Program is open to American, Asian, Australian, Canadian, European and Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Tanzania Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Resume
• Transcript
• Written Application

ELI-Experiential Learning International's Mission Statement: ELI's full name, Experiential Learning International, reflects our philosophy. We believe that the most compelling life lessons come through experience, and that international experiences are among the most profound influences on our sense of self and our view of the world. ELI facilitates flexible international learning programs for independent travelers by partnering with local organizations to give participants the opportunity to experience and contribute to sustainable ongoing local projects throughout the world.

Year Founded: 2001